Reading boss Noel Hunt has confirmed that 'conversations' have taken place regarding contract extensions for next season, but nothing can be done until the 'hurdle' of EFL embargo is cleared.
The Royals are sat ninth heading into the final 14 League One matches of the season, just three points outside the play-offs.
However, many supporters are concerned about the prospect of next year, with only five players currently registered for the campaign starting in August.
While Hunt shares those concerns, the former Championship winner has confirmed there is little the club can do currently as an EFL embargo is in place.
"It is just the rules in terms of the embargo being in place," he said ahead of Saturday's trip to Wigan Athletic. "It is a little bit of a hurdle, but we’ve had conversations with certain players already and they know that when the time comes, when the barrier is lifted, or the gates are opened.
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"There is just under a third of the season to go, it’s all to play for and an exciting time to be here. A lot of these young boys are experiencing being at the right end of the table for the first time. We have to make sure we stay there and the minute we start taking our focus off the football, that can slip."
With news of a potential takeover on the horizon, with American Robert Platek in exclusive negotiations, Hunt hopes that this can speed up the process.
"It is imperative that we do it as fast as we can. We have had conversations in terms of where we are, what we have and what we need. I am sure that a potential new owner coming in will know that as well. It is important that when it happens, we get together as early as we can and move forward.
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"This has been with me from when I played, you can only focus on what you can control. That was the next training session, the next gym session or the next game. The more points we acquire, the higher position we finish and the better it is for everyone. Our focus now is looking to get three points on Saturday."
